For a week in January, Aspen becomes the center of the jibtastic universe when the Winter X Games comes to town. With 80,000 spectators (heavy on the park rats), dozens of free events, and parties—i.e. free booze—galore, Aspen is going to go off. Here’s your insider’s guide to the 2011 Winter X Games.

Jackson Hole, with its storied red tram, and huge vertical and cliffs has a reputation as an icon of skiing the world over. But at its heart, Jackson is just like every ski town, with local ins and outs that make life easier (and better). Here’s a few tips to optimize the experience.